Every small effort counts in addressing climate change, says MRC Sarawak chief
KUCHING: Everyone must play a part in reducing the effects of climate change, as even a small effort can become a mountain, says Malaysia Red Crescent (MRC) Sarawak chairman Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr George Chan.
He believed that even the smallest of effort must never be belittled as climate change is a worldwide challenge – if not taken seriously from now, ‘the world might not be nice place in the next 100 years’.
“Climate change would continue, if we’re to continue what we’re doing now. The sea level has been rising and since 1930s, it has risen by three inches,” he said in his opening remarks at the ‘Tree Planting Day’ at SMK Kuching High yesterday.
Dr Chan said since many major cities are located near the sea, the rise of two feet (0.6m) in sea level would be enough to submerge a large number of them, and many infrastructure would be adversely affected.
Thus, he regarded planting trees as a good activity because without trees, it would be very hot.
Moreover, he said, trees would produce oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide.
“If there are no trees, there would be a lot of carbon dioxide – we’d end up carrying oxygen tanks everywhere. Trees are also beautiful to look at, as some have colourful leaves and flowers.”
Meanwhile, SMK Kuching High principal Tan Kiang Tuang said the key objectives of the programme were to beautify the school and create a healthier environment for the students.
Six trees were planted around the school yesterday.